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Media Studies A Level at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Technology College

Course description

A Level Media Studies is a contemporary subject that offers a mix between theoretical concepts and practical application.

Why choose Media Studies?
- Through the practical production at A level you will explore the production processes, technologies and relevant contexts.
- Comprehensive and integrated coverage of media theory and practice.
- A focus on new technology.
- You will become independent in your research skills and be able to apply this research to your own practical work.
- Opportunities for you to study media issues that you feel are important.
- Enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the media.
- Prepares you for progression into work or higher education in a range of mediarelated areas.

Course content

A-level Media Studies engages students in the in depth study of media products in relation to the four areas of the theoretical framework:

Students are required to study media products from all of the following media forms:
- Audio-visual forms (TV, film, radio, advertising and marketing, video games and music video)
- Online forms (social and participatory media, video games, music video, newspapers, magazines, advertising and marketing)
- Print forms (newspapers, magazines, advertising and marketing)

Entry requirements

You do NOT need to have studied GCSE Media Studies, although it is vital to have an interest in how the media are constructed and the impact they have on our daily lives. If you have studied GCSE Media then you will need a grade C or above to progress. If
you have not studied GCSE Media Studies than a grade 4 or above in English will be valuable. Effective communication is essential in Media Studies, both in the written form and class discussion.

Assessment

Paper 1
Questions will focus on issues and debates in the media. A topic will be released in advance of the exam. Students will be expected to use any relevant elements of the theoretical framework in order to explore the ideas in the paper.

Written exam: 2 hours
84 marks
35% of A-level

Questions
- An argument relating to the theme.
- Short answer questions relating to the theme.
- 2x15 mark questions testing in depth knowledge of two areas of the theoretical framework.
- 2x25 mark questions assessing in depth knowledge of the two remaining areas of the theoretical framework.

Paper 2
Questions will focus on the analysis of media products, through the lens of the theoretical framework. Students will be expected to refer to the Close Study Products (CSPs) provided by AQA and other products they have studied. They will also be expected to
demonstrate understanding of the contexts in which the products were created.

- Written exam: 2 hours
- 84 marks
- 35% of A-level

Questions
- Contrasting points of view relating to a particular CSP.
- Short answer questions assessing breadth and depth of knowledge of aspects of the theoretical framework in relation to particular media products.
- 2x30 mark questions assessing depth of knowledge of the theoretical framework and/or contexts in relation to media products.

Non-examination assessment: Creating a media product
- Application of knowledge and understanding of the theoretical framework.
- Practical skills relating to the media format of their choice.